6 Ways Eastern Washington Moms & Western Washington Moms Are Different (And How We're The Same)

It's a good thing I only have one child, because I hear picking between two or more to select a favorite (which obviously you must do) is impossible. Much like picking between Eastern Washington (where I live) and Western Washington (where I was born and raised...and yes, on the playground is where I spent most of my days). So while I'm not out to pick a favorite, I am out to do a healthy exploration of the two regions, and perhaps make few casual observations about motherhood in each. That's all, just a few casual observations. I don't want to start a rivalry or anything. I can only invest in so many location-based sparring matches. (Speaking of, anyone else catch Apple Cup this year?)

On the surface, it might appear that moms in Eastern Washington and moms in Western Washington are not all that different. I mean, don't we all start our day with the crow of a rooster, and a nice cup of coffee sipped while wearing a flannel shirt and watching tumbleweeds go by our windows? LOL, obviously I'm kidding, guys; It's actually the crow of my toddler that lovingly rouses me from my sleep. Oh, and there are no tumbleweeds on our street. But I have spotted wild turkeys roaming across our lawn, so I guess that's a win. Seriously though, as much as we have in common (for starters, opting to live in one of the most glorious states in our sacred union), there are a few key differences between Eastern Washington Moms and Western Washington Moms. Join me in this exploration...

Where We Live

Eastern Washington

Contrary to popular belief, we don't all live on farms, and our kids don't all know how to milk cows. Although, my son does pass them on a semi-regular basis when he goes to work with his dad, so I suppose that should count for something. In fact, most of us have normal houses and apartments...and maybe just one or two friends with livestock.

Western Washington

Fewer farms, but more condos with views of Puget Sound, and the occasional houseboat (or the frequent houseboat, as The Bachelor franchise might want us to believe). As a native, it didn't occur to me how unique it was to see water from your house until I lived a few miles inland.

Overlap:

Yes, lots. There's almost as many types of homes as trees in Washington, making room for plenty of variety on both sides of the state.

Wardrobe & Style

Eastern Washington:

Here, I feel fancy when I wear dangly earrings. As the mom of a toddler, the casual vibe suits me just fine. There are fashion-forward people, but they are few and far between, and usually you can't see them through the sea of oversized hoodies anyway.

Western Washington:

Many moms I know in Western Washington tend to dress very well, though their outfits are often hidden under a belted coat in a primary color. We all know how important outerwear is since no Western Washington natives actually carry umbrellas.

Overlap:

Scarves and boots, all the time, everywhere.

How We Spend Our Downtime

Eastern Washington:

What month is it? Eastern Washington residents get four distinct seasons, and we take proper advantage of them. My personal favorite is fall, when a free weekend means a trip to the pumpkin patch, cider, and fresh air.

Western Washington:

It depends, are the Seahawks playing? If so, the weekend's already planned. If not, there may be some beach action and possibly some geoducks in the forecast.

Overlap:

Washingtonian moms also know our coffee, our wine, and thanks to the sassy weather our state often sees, our Netflix.

Food & Drink

Eastern Washington:

I've eaten things — many things — caught or killed by someone at the table with us; things made from freshly laid eggs; from veggies grown in my friends' gardens; or from fruit handpicked at a local farm.

Western Washington:

Overlap:

In my experience, there's prettttttty similar eating on both sides of the state though the east side has more huckleberries. Thanks, Idaho!

Elements

Eastern Washington:

Our kids may not always get snow days, but when they do, there is some serious winter recreation fun to be had. The region doesn't slow down when snow hits — we simply add more layers and give our cars a few minutes longer to warm up.

Western Washington:

Yes, we all know about the rain, but let's not forget the occasional earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. You guys get credit for braving those, too.

Overlap:

None of us let a little precipitation get us down.

Baby & Kid Gear

Eastern Washington:

My 18-month-old is already breaking in his first pair of snow boots. He's also had lots of camo attire gifted to him, because everyone thinks of Spokane boys as tromping around in the woods.

Western Washington:

Tiny Seahawks onesies and 12 jerseys, obviously.

Overlap:

Carseat covers, for blocking rain, cold, and sun, depending on the day (or hour, really).